Kansas

Getting Your Certified Nursing Assistant License in Kansas

Here's what you need to know.

Last updated 2026-03-22 · Sources verified

Path for Out-of-State Certified Nursing Assistants

There is no active interstate compact route for certified nursing assistant licensing in Kansas. Plan on endorsement through Kansas KDADS.

CNAs certified in another state can often apply via endorsement (reciprocity) by providing registry verification from their home state.

Items to Watch Out For

These are the issues most likely to affect whether your contract timeline is realistic in Kansas.

  • Fingerprinting: Required. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail. Completing prints outside Kansas can add 2-4 weeks.
  • License verification: Kansas requires verification of your current out-of-state license before your file is complete.
  • Compact status: No active compact route here. Plan on endorsement.
  • Temporary license: The board lists a temporary or provisional route while the full file is pending.

Kansas Endorsement Requirements

This is the endorsement checklist for already-licensed clinicians applying in Kansas.

  1. Step 1

    Start the Kansas application

    Apply through the Kansas KDADS. The application fee is $20.

  2. Step 2

    Send verification of your current license

    Kansas requires verification sent directly from your current state board or its official verification system before your file is complete.

  3. Step 3

    Send Proof of Training

    Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.

  4. Step 4

    Send State Competency Exam Results

    Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.

  5. Step 5

    Complete fingerprinting or background check

    Kansas requires fingerprinting or background screening on this path. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail.

  6. Step 6

    Wait for board processing

    Plan on about 2 to 4 Weeks for processing. Kansas also lists a temporary or provisional route while the full file is pending.

  7. Step 7

    Complete Training Program

    Complete a state-approved CNA training program (typically 75-120 hours).

Fees and Renewal

Total fee
$20
Processing time
2 to 4 Weeks
Renewal fee
N/A
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
Application
$20
Background check
Varies by provider
Jurisprudence exam
$0
Total estimated cost
$20

Temporary License

Kansas offers a temporary or provisional license so you can start working while your full endorsement application is processing.

Fee
See board
Duration
See board
Processing time
See board

Required Documents

  • Proof of Training: Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.
  • State Competency Exam Results: Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.

Board Contact

Board
Kansas KDADS
Department
State Health Department
Phone
(785) 296-4986
Email
See board website
Board site
Primary board page

Source: Primary board website

Renewal

Renewal fee is N/A. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years.

Kansas Certified Nursing Assistant Licensing FAQ

How much does Kansas CNA endorsement cost?

The endorsement application fee is $20. Additional costs may include background check fees.

Is a background check required?

Yes, a fingerprint-based background check is required in Kansas.

How long does it take to transfer my CNA certification to Kansas?

Most endorsement applications take 2 to 4 Weeks.

Can I start working in Kansas while waiting?

Check with the state board about temporary practice permits while your endorsement is being processed.

Sources

Kansas KDADS